I need instructions for these children

Raising children is a tough and demanding job, but very rewarding. As most parents say, "it doesn't come with a handbook," although I really wish it did.

I know how I was raised — the morals and values that were instilled in me. My parents taught me respect, respect and respect. In turn I attempt to teach my children respect for themselves and others.

My worries lie in my ability to teach my children morals and values. I think this is because I know how huge of a job being a parent is, the most important one I'll ever have, and I don't want to mess this up.

I want to raise my children with godly morals and values which include respect, love and honesty.

Speaking of honesty, I think I'm just winging this parent thing as best I know how and all I can do is pray that they take heed in what I say and what I do.

I heard about this program being offered to local professionals who are involved in child care of some sort.

The program, Love and Logic, is a "Simple solution and practical technique to help parents with kids of all ages, raise responsible kids, have more fun in their role and easily and immediately change their children's behavior."

It's been around for over 30 years and was established by Jim Fay and Foster W. Cline, M.D. in 1977.

"It's a humane and low drama way to interact with children," said Dixie Koenemann.

"It's designed to teach children to think through the consequences of their actions." she added.

Dixie is currently heading the program in the Coldwater area.

After discussing this program with Dixie, I knew it was for me. I spoke with my husband about this and he too was on board with it. After all, if there's a handbook like program I'll use it.

What interested me the most is the aspect of teaching my children to own and handle their own problems. I was never coddled as a child and I don't believe in that. I believe in teaching my children how to deal with problems at a young age because they will only get bigger and occur more often as adults.

This program teaches parents to use love and respect without being sarcastic or condescending while allowing their children to take responsibility for their own actions.

Lets use the following scenario: A child had been instructed by the parents to always put their bike away when they are done riding it for the night and they neglect to do so and the bike is stolen. With love and logic I would approach the child with a response similar to: I'm so sorry that you forgot to put your bike away and it was stolen. I know how bad that must feel. You can do some chores around the house to earn money to purchase another bike.Instead of using anger or frustration, parents are taught to use love and logic to parent their children.

Of course, some issues may arise in the child's life that may be too big for them to handle on their own, depending on their age, but for most everything else I think this logical way of parenting will work for me.

The program will be offered again in July, September and November with those interested registering in advance. Currently, the cost of the program is $9. Brochures on the program including future class schedules are located at different businesses throughout the area.Christy Hart-Harris is a staff writer at The Daily Reporter. She can be reached at charris@thedailyreporter.com.